Smoke-Free Laws & Policies

What is the Smoke-Free Illinois Act?

The Smoke-Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82; Public Act 095-0017) is a comprehensive anti-smoking law that took effect in Illinois on January 1, 2008 and bans smoking in most buildings and vehicles used by the general public, used as a place of employment, or owned by the government or other public body.

All indoor public places and workplaces must be smoke-free, including 15 feet from doors, windows and vents. This includes private clubs, public transportation, government vehicles, and common ares of multi-unit housing. There are some exemptions for tobacco retailers, hotels, and long-term care facilities. For more details, see our handout: Smoke-free Illinois FAQ for businesses

Reporting a Violation Of the Smoke-free Illinois Act

To report a violation, call 866-973-4646 or go to Smoke-Free Illinois. According to the Smoke-Free Illinois Act, indoor public places and workplaces must be smoke-free, including 15 feet from doors, windows, and vents. This includes private clubs, public transportation, government vehicles, and common areas of multi-unit housing. There are some exemptions for tobacco retailers, hotels, and long-term care facilities. For details, see our handout: Smoke-Free Illinois FAQ

My Neighbor’s Smoke Bothers Me. What Can I Do About It?

More information on secondhand smoke in apartment buildings is available on our Fact Sheets page. For help finding the information you need, don’t hesitate to call Tobacco Free Lake County at 847.377.8090.

Tobacco Free Lake County Helping Make Rental Property Smoke-Free

If you are a landlord seriously considering a smoke-free policy for one or more of your buildings, Tobacco Free Lake County can provide assistance with:

Policy development

Policy implementation such as signage and promotion

Presentations to residents and/or staff

Quit tobacco resources such as quit kits and on-site quit groups

Resident surveys

Develop a Plan

Call us at 847-337-8090 or send us an email at tflc@lakecountyil.gov and together we’ll develop a plan that is best for you, your property, and your residents. You can also get started on your own by reviewing our Smoke-Free Housing Landlord Toolkit or taking the free online course offered by the American Lung Association (simply request a username and password at the provided email address).